Benefits of Participating in Engaged Learning

The Center for Engaged Learning (CEL) connects you with opportunities to enhance your learning experiences inside and beyond the classroom. Every student is encouraged to complete an engaged learning experience before graduation to help develop career-readiness competencies, like critical thinking, communication, leadership and teamwork. Students who complete at least two engaged learning experiences may be eligible to receive the CARDS EXCEL distinction and cords. View our student testimonials to learn more about engaged learning experiences.

Benefits of engaged learning

  • Understand and apply course material
  • Expand your view of the world, including appreciation of community and diversity 
  • Gain insight into your skills, interests, passions and values
  • Collaborate with diverse organizations and people
  • Develop professional practices and skill sets
  • Improve your community through civic engagement
  • Boost your self-confidence and leadership skills
  • Earn graduation cord and distinction through CARDS EXCEL

Sometimes the best way to learn is by doing engaging experiences that put your knowledge to the test - so, take advantage of every opportunity!

Loghan Currin Engaged Learning Participant
Student posing with cap and tassle

Find an Engaged Learning Experience

Learn about internships, studies abroad, research projects, community service activities and other engaged learning opportunities available.
Internships & co-ops
You can search and apply for co-ops and internships through UofL’s comprehensive career management tool, Cardinal Careers (powered by Symplicity).
International Internships
GoinGlobal provides jobseekers of all nationalities with tools to fast track their career explorations abroad, featuring employment, internship and study abroad resources for more than 120 locations. Visit the GoinGlobal webage for more information.
Undergraduate Research
Undergraduate research and creative activities expand on classroom learning to advance knowledge and human expression through exploration and discovery.
Community Engagement
The Helper Helper app to coordinate and track community service experiences for students, making it easier for you to find volunteer opportunities and track your service hours. To get started, you’ll need to request a Helper Helper account.
Recognized Student Organizations
UofL hosts over 400 recognized student organizations (RSOs) covering a wide variety of student interests. These groups provide a wonderful opportunity to become involved in campus life and to connect with other students on campus.
Study Abroad
Find opportunities for international study, research or practical experiences outside of the United States. These enriching experiences foster critical thought, intellectual and social growth and responsible global citizenship.
International Service Learning Program (ISLP)
Explore multidisciplinary 3 credit hour classes that culminate in an international service project in one of four countries. Each program is unique to the rich cultural experiences at the program sites that blend community engagement and learning.
Community-based learning courses
Participate in a learning experience with an external partner organization and can include internships, co-ops, independent studies, clinical experiences for credit, capstone projects and culminating educational experiences.

My internship opened my eyes to a whole career that I had not considered before. Getting to do things hands-on and see them in person was amazing!

James Casey Sneed Engaged Learning Participant
Holding a radio in the stadium

Contact Us

Center for Engaged Learning

Department Website about

Phone

Location

University of Louisville
Louisville, KY 40208